Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
If you’re looking for a hearty meal that warms the soul, then this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is just what you need! This chili is not only packed with flavor but is also a comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s a recipe I cherish, bringing back memories of cozy evenings spent with loved ones. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up, making it a go-to option anytime you crave something delicious and filling.
What makes this chili truly special is its rich blend of spices and the way it brings everyone together around the table. There’s nothing quite like the aroma wafting through your home as this dish simmers away, inviting everyone to come and enjoy a bowl (or two!).
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, even beginner cooks can master this recipe.
- Flavor-packed: The combination of spices creates a robust and satisfying taste that everyone will love.
- Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!
- Customizable: Adjust the heat level or add your favorite toppings to make this chili your own.
- Family-friendly: This chili is a hit with both kids and adults, making it an ideal meal for gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll find that the ingredients in this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe are simple and wholesome. They come together beautifully to create a rich, flavorful dish that’s sure to please. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Chili
- 3 tablespoons canola oil
- 1 medium yellow or white onion (diced)
- 2 pounds ground chuck (or beef chuck, cut into 1/2-inch cubes)
- 2 tablespoons diced garlic
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning blend
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (Spanish paprika)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin seeds
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 2 (14 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
- 2 (15 ounce) cans red kidney beans, drained
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/4 cup jalapenos (sliced and seeded)
- 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons masa harina (or corn tortilla flour)
Optional Toppings
These toppings can take your chili to the next level!
* Sour cream
* Shredded cheddar cheese
* Tortilla chips
* Avocado slices
Variations
One of the best things about this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Swap the protein: Use turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
- Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Make it spicy: If you like heat, add more jalapenos or use hot chili powder.
- Try different beans: Substitute kidney beans with black beans or pinto beans for variety.
How to Make Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Warm the oil in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-5 minutes until soft. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Next, add the garlic along with your ground chuck. Brown the meat while breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. This step not only cooks the meat but also allows those delicious flavors of onion and garlic to infuse into every bite.
Step 2: Spice It Up
Once your meat is browned, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add in all those wonderful spices: Italian seasoning, chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, brown sugar, vinegar, crushed tomatoes, drained kidney beans, black pepper, kosher salt, sliced jalapenos, and crushed red pepper flakes. Give everything a good stir to combine. The mix of spices will create an aromatic base that makes this chili so irresistible!
Step 3: Simmer Away
Let your chili simmer for about 10 minutes so all those flavors can meld together beautifully. Then add masa harina—this helps thicken your chili while providing an authentic texture. Cook for another 10 minutes until it reaches your desired thickness. Keep an eye on it; you want it just right—thick but still pourable!
Step 4: Serve It Up!
Now comes the best part! Ladle your delicious Texas Roadhouse Chili into bowls and top with sour cream, shredded cheese, crunchy tortilla chips, or creamy avocado slices—whatever makes your heart happy! Enjoy each spoonful knowing you’ve created something truly special.
And there you have it—a warm bowl of happiness ready to be shared!
Pro Tips for Making Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
Making chili is all about layering flavors and achieving the perfect consistency. Here are some tips to help you make this Texas Roadhouse Chili a standout dish!
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices elevate the flavor of your chili, making it vibrant and aromatic. Always opt for fresh garlic and quality spices for the best results.
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Adjust spice levels: If you like your chili with a kick, feel free to add more jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. Start small, taste as you go, and adjust according to your heat preference.
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Let it simmer: Allowing the chili to simmer longer enhances the flavors significantly. If time permits, let it cook for an hour or more on low heat; this will meld all the ingredients beautifully.
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Experiment with toppings: Toppings can transform your dish! Try adding different combinations of sour cream, shredded cheese, or avocado slices to cater to everyone’s tastes.
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Make it ahead: Chili often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge for an easy meal later in the week!
How to Serve Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
Serving Texas Roadhouse Chili is not just about filling bowls; it’s an opportunity to create a delightful meal experience. Here are some ideas on how to present this hearty dish that will impress your family and friends!
Garnishes
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess that balances out the spices in chili.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar on top while it’s still hot for a melty, savory addition.
- Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado not only adds a beautiful color but also gives a lovely creamy texture that complements the heat.
Side Dishes
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Cornbread: This classic pairing provides a sweet contrast to the spicy chili. Serve it warm with butter for extra indulgence.
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Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for scooping up chili and add a fun texture to your meal.
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Rice or Quinoa: A side of fluffy rice or quinoa can help soak up all those delicious chili juices while providing additional nutrition.
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Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and a hint of sweetness that balances out the richness of the chili.
With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re well on your way to creating a memorable meal with this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe! Enjoy every hearty bite!

Make Ahead and Storage
This Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is perfect for meal prep! It not only tastes better the next day but also makes for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly:
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
- Let the chili cool down before freezing.
- Place it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To prevent freezer burn, remove as much air as possible from bags.
Reheating
- Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen.
- Heat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
- Alternatively, reheat in the microwave using a microwave-safe container, covering loosely.
FAQs
Here are answers to some common questions about this delicious chili recipe!
Can I make this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with plant-based alternatives like lentils or veggie crumbles. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
How spicy is the Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preferences. If you like it milder, reduce the amount of jalapeños and crushed red pepper flakes. For extra heat, feel free to add more!
What sides go well with Texas Roadhouse Chili?
This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with rice or over baked potatoes for a heartier meal.
Can I use canned beans in this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe?
Yes! Canned beans are convenient and work perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to rinse and drain them before adding them to your chili.
How long does it take to make Texas Roadhouse Chili?
This hearty chili takes about 55 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cook time. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction on chilly days. Remember that cooking is all about experimenting; feel free to make it your own! So grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and enjoy every delicious bite together. Happy cooking!

Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
If you’re in search of a hearty and flavorful dish that brings warmth and comfort, look no further than this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe. This chili is a perfect blend of spices and wholesome ingredients, making it ideal for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or meal prep. Its rich aroma will fill your kitchen as it simmers, inviting everyone to come together and enjoy a bowl (or two!). Plus, with the flexibility to customize the heat level and toppings, it’s a dish that caters to everyone’s tastes.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons canola oil
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 2 tablespoons diced garlic
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning blend
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin seeds
- 2 (14 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
- 2 (15 ounce) cans red kidney beans (drained)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, tortilla chips, avocado slices
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat, warm the canola oil. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3–5 minutes until soft. Stir in the garlic and ground beef; cook until browned.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and mix in Italian seasoning, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, crushed tomatoes, drained kidney beans, black pepper, kosher salt, jalapeños, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes. Then add masa harina to thicken the chili and continue cooking for another 10 minutes until you reach your desired thickness.
- Serve hot in bowls topped with your choice of sour cream, cheese, tortilla chips, or avocado slices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg